As I sit here at my desk in my school’s staffroom, on a surprisingly cool and rainy day for September, I am reflecting back on my motorcycle journey this summer - the freedom of the open road, exploring new vistas, traveling along paths once walked by pilgrims and samurai. I was continuously reminded of the beauty of this country that I have chosen to live in. During this journey, I was reading our submissions, along with Hema, Lakshmi, Sumitra and Jenny, finding moments of peace, of resilience, of solitude, of grace, of joy. After 8 to 10-hour days on a motorcycle in the summer heat, they, along with the air conditioning in our hotel room, were a welcome respite. This year we have chosen to pair each piece with public domain artwork from galleries and museums around the world - all thanks to Hema and all of her hard work as our tireless EIC. I hope you find in our selections moments that speak to you - that give you something to hold on to in these dark times. As always, sending light, love and creativity to all of you. Melissa